Erave rugby league successfully completes inaugural grand final

The Erave Rugby League in the rural Kagua Erave District in Southern Highlands completed its inaugural grand finals earlier this week.

The grand final at the Kamare Oval in Erave Station was a thriller as Ambo Rooster defeated Puki Raiders, 8-6, to claim the maiden cup.

The local league is affiliated and fully sanctioned by the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League and is aimed at addressing social issues and keeping youths engaged.

The initiative created by NBC ENGA Journalist in Charge, Emmanuel Eralia, is a platform to build a better community.

"The main reason for creating the league is to keep youths engaged and away from drugs and bad behavior, generate cash flow in the area, maintain peace and harmony, and also give a second chance to youths to pursue a career in rugby league," Eralia said.

He said that it was a mammoth task to raise K13,000 to pay the league and player registrations as per PNGRFL requirements.

Mr Eralia acknowledged those who assisted in the success of the league, which saw Rooster take out the inaugural title.

He said the 14 competitions smoothly ran despite minor hurdles, finishing off on a high note without any violence and disruptions.

“This is history because there was no disturbance,” Eralia said.

Meanwhile, ERL president Daniel Mere thanked his executives and the community leaders for a prosperous competition.

He also acknowledged the sponsors and pledged to deliver a better 2025 season.

The Roosters from the senior men's division and Junior T Rox for the under-20 division, will represent the new league to participate in the PNGRFL sanctioned club championships next month.